journal k ayaker’s 8 CHECKOUT BY VIRGINIA MARSHALL HOT STUFF
SIX SUMMER SIZZLERS KEEN
CLEARWATER CNX
www.keenfootwear.com • $100
For a fresh take on their classic sandal, Keen went in the same direction as backpackers, jockeys and supermodels: lighter is better. Rather than ditching spare undies or developing an eating disorder, the Clearwater CNX uses pared down materials to shed unwanted ounces for featherweight fit and protection.
ALITE MAYFLY
www.alitedesigns.com • $100
The Mayfly eats excuses for breakfast: Camp chairs are impractical? This compact marvel packs down to the size of a Thermos. Uncomfortable? This stable, three-legged lounger’s sling seat is generously sized for semi-reclined bliss. Fragile? Unlike its winged namesake, this Mayfly is guaranteed a long and robust life.
EXOFFICIO
SOL COOL HOODY
www.exofficio.com • $65
Never lose your cool. ExOfficio’s slinky Icefil fabric is infused with Xylitol, a sugar alcohol found in birch trees, to create a moisture-activated cooling sensation. Quick drying and odor resistant, it’s also rated UPF 50+ for maximum sun protection.
OUTDOOR RESEARCH
GRAPHIC DRY SACKS
www.outdoorresearch.com • $16–20
According to OR’s marketing wizards, the funky designs on these colorful nylon dry bags “help with organization.” Sure, and dark chocolate peppermint patties help with digestion. They’re cool, ‘nuff said. Available in 5-, 10- and 15-L.
AQUA-BOUND
STING RAY CARBON
www.aquabound.com • $190
Like a poorly adjusted bicycle derailleur, a sloppy fitting split paddle will sap your efficiency and your patience. Who needs the aggravation? Aqua-Bound’s new Posi-Lok ferrule lets you tweak your feather in 15-degree increments and dual buttons eliminate infuriating wiggle-waggle, or as AB engineer Jason Eccles puts it, “There’s no radial or linear free-play.” A mid-size blade and pure carbon shaft round out this slick stick.
SALTWOOD PADDLES GRASSHOPPER
www.saltwoodpaddles.com • $375 straight / $450 bent
If carbon doesn’t turn your crank, perhaps Saltwood’s one- piece wood shafts are more your speed. Artisan builders Richard Davis and Mike Robinson pair balsa-core, carbon composite blades with a fiberglass-wrapped, hollow spruce shaft. The result is a light swing weight and stiffness where it’s needed, and the unmatched flexibility and feel of wood where it’s not. Plus, double hand indexes mean your fingers always know where they are, even if you don’t.
34 ADVENTURE KAYAK | SUMMER/FALL 2013
PHOTOS: VIRGINIA MARSHALL
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